Storm Drain Medallion Program
Install storm drain markers in your neighborhood to reduce pollution. Did you know what flows down the storm drain could also pollute our streams, rivers and wetlands? Because many stormwater drains lead to streams and groundwater, the City of Vancouver encourages marking drains with medallions that provide an important message: Only Rain Down the Drain.
Pesticides and garden chemicals, soap from car washing, pet waste and automotive fluids can wash off driveways, streets and lawns into storm drains which then flow into streams and other water bodies. Volunteer groups can work with the City to install medallions near storm drains in an effort to raise awareness about the link between stormwater drainage and water quality.
The City of Vancouver will provide medallions, supplies and training to neighborhoods, education groups or other volunteers. Learn more about this program by reviewing the information below, also on a handy fact sheet.
This project is suitable for groups of two to four people. Medallion installation is open to volunteers from June 1 to Oct. 15, as installation requires warm temperatures and dry weather.
Storm Drain Marker Installation Project Checklist
Follow these simple steps to organize your work party and complete your project.
- Complete online volunteer application – Please have the lead volunteer fill out the online application.
- Contact the Water Resources Education Center – Schedule an in-person orientation time at the Water Center. Call 360-487-7111 or email vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us.
- Coordinate your group – This project is suitable for groups of two to four people.
- Pick up your medallion kit and learn how to use ArcGIS – The City is using ArcGIS, an online mapping tool, to track every medallion installed. Staff will orient you to the app, show you the gear and give a safety orientation. Bring your smart phone to orientation.
- Return kit to the Water Center – Return the kit with all the tools and remaining materials.
Equipment Checklist
This simple kit has everything you need to host a work party – just supply the volunteers.
- Tool bag
- Traffic safety vests
- Safety flags and cones
- Safety goggles
- Latex gloves
- Storm drain medallions
- Medallion rivets
- Wire brush, whisk broom, dustpan
- Polyurethane adhesive
- Drill with concrete bits
- Trash bags
- Handy-wipe
Safety Guidelines
Make sure all of your volunteers are informed on all safety protocols.
- Adult supervision is required when working with youth under the age of 18.
- Only storm drains in neighborhood roads with a speed limit of 25 miles per hour are located on your GIS online mapping tool.
- Put on safety vests before beginning any work in the road.
- Always face oncoming traffic. Be aware of traffic flow at all times.
- Set up safety cones around drain. There should always be at least one person watching for traffic at all times.
- The kit includes goggles and gloves. Be sure to use both when operating the drill.
- Only team members 18 years of age or older should use the drill.
- Only mark drains that are free from obstructions or hazards. Make a note of any drain that has an obstruction.
Clark County Storm Drain Marking Program
Regional partners across our community are committed to helping remind residents to protect water and that only rain should go down the drain. Check out Clark County’s program webpage, which includes a video to help you learn how to mark storm drains.